Checking date: 21/06/2024


Course: 2024/2025

Forensic Science II
(16365)
Bachelor in Security Engineering (Plan: 282 - Estudio: 272)


Coordinating teacher: LUIS GARCÍA, JUAN

Department assigned to the subject: Transversal matters

Type: Compulsory
ECTS Credits: 6.0 ECTS

Course:
Semester:




Requirements (Subjects that are assumed to be known)
No prerequisite necessary.
Objectives
The abilities adquired by the students are the next: - To apply correctly the methods, procedures and technics of research in order to resolve crimes. To reach this goal is necessary to obtain the following results of learning: - Knowing the methods, procedures and technics of research that, from the point of view of the current tecnology, help the resolve of crimes.
Skills and learning outcomes
Description of contents: programme
1. Ballistics and Instrumental Traces: ballistics and instrumental traces refer to the scientific and technical study of firearms and their effects, as well as the analysis of the traces and marks produced at the crime scene or on objects related to a crime. This discipline includes the analysis of bullet trajectories, firearm identification, evaluation of bullet effects on objects and living beings, as well as the analysis of tool marks and other aspects. The primary objective of ballistics and instrumental traces is to provide scientific evidence that helps solve crimes and identify those responsible. This part includes: - Tool marks - Exterior ballistics - Identificative ballistics - Functional ballistics - Effects ballistics - Wound ballistics - Footwear impressions and SICAR - Stolen vehicles 2. Graphology: graphology is the discipline that deals with the study and analysis of handwriting and written documents in general, with the aim of identifying their author(s), determining their authenticity, and detecting any alterations or forgeries. Graphologists use specific techniques and tools to analyze handwriting, such as observing the shape and size of letters, the inclination and pressure of the writing, and the speed and rhythm of the handwriting, among other aspects. Graphology is very useful in criminal investigations, as it can help identify the authorship of forged documents or anonymous threats, and in other fields, such as historical research and the authentication of artwork and important documents. 3. Forensic Photography: forensic photography is a crucial discipline in criminal investigation that focuses on the detailed capture and analysis of crime scenes, victims, suspects, and any relevant evidence. This technique not only documents the crime scene objectively and precisely, but also allows investigators and courts to have an exact visual record of the facts. 4. Forensic Science and the Environment (Soil, Glass, and Other Analyses): forensic science and the environment is an interdisciplinary discipline that applies scientific techniques to investigate environmental crimes and analyze evidence related to the natural environment. This field of study focuses on the analysis of soils, glass, and other environmental materials to provide crucial information in solving crimes and protecting the environment. 5. Drug Analysis and Detection: New Psychoactive Substances: drug analysis and detection is a crucial discipline in forensic science dedicated to the identification and quantification of controlled substances in biological and non-biological samples. With the constant rise of new psychoactive substances (NPS), also known as new designer drugs, this field has become increasingly complex and essential in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse. 6. Forensic Anthropology and Identification: forensic anthropology is a branch of forensic science that deals with the study of human remains, with the aim of determining identity, causes of death, and other circumstances related to a deceased person. Forensic anthropologists apply methods and knowledge from physical anthropology to help solve criminal cases, mass disasters, and other situations where human remains need to be identified.
Learning activities and methodology
Both face-to-face and non-face-to-face activities are included with teacher support. Face-to-face ECTS: 2.4 credits out of 6 ECTS for each subject, or 1.2 credits out of 3 ECTS for each subject, correspond to face-to-face work by the student with the support of teachers (lectures, problem-solving and doubt resolution classes in small groups, laboratory classes, student presentations). Non-face-to-face ECTS: 3.6 credits out of 6 ECTS for each subject, or 1.8 credits out of 3 ECTS for each subject, correspond to personal work by the student (including study, completion of assignments, tests and exams, etc.). 50% of the training activities (3 ECTS in 6 ECTS subjects, or 1.5 ECTS in 3 ECTS subjects) are focused on acquiring theoretical knowledge. The remaining 50% is focused on acquiring practical skills related to the program of each subject. Around 10% of face-to-face tutoring sessions are planned, and any queries from students can also be made asynchronously. Finally, theoretical and practical knowledge will be complemented with visits to various organizations and institutions related to the subject matter.
Assessment System
  • % end-of-term-examination 0
  • % of continuous assessment (assigments, laboratory, practicals...) 100

Calendar of Continuous assessment


Extraordinary call: regulations
Basic Bibliography
  • Antón Barberá, F., J.V. De Luis y Turégano. Manual de Técnica Policial. Policia. 1991
  • Bodziak, W.J.. Footwear Impression Evidence. CRC Press. 2000
  • Báñez Peinado, José. Técnicas de investigación criminal. Dykinson S.L.. 2012
  • Sáez Martínez, Julio. Ciencias Forenses II: Grafística. Fundamentos.. Centro Universitario de la Guardia Civil. 2018
  • Verón Bustillo, Emilio Javier. Ciencias forenses II (Parte I): Balistica y trazas instrumentales. Centro Universitario de la Guardia Civil. 2016

The course syllabus may change due academic events or other reasons.